Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest

The mission of the Governor’s Business Plan Contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the seed, startup and early growth stages of
high-tech businesses in Wisconsin. The contest links up-and-coming
entrepreneurs with a statewide network of community resources, expert
advice, high-quality education, management talent and possible sources
of capital.

Since its inception in 2004, more than 2,900 entries have been
received across four categories – advanced manufacturing, business
services, information technology and life sciences. The contest has led
to cash and in-kind prizes (such as legal, accounting, office space and
marketing) valued at about $2 million. More important: Contest finalists have raised $160 million in angel, venture, grants and venture debt over time. Those same finalists have stayed in business much longer than normal when compared to U.S. startup rates – and they are creating jobs.

Produced by the Wisconsin Technology Council
and a growing list of partners, the Governor’s Business Plan
Contest engages contestants in a five-month process that includes the
opportunity to work with mentors and receive feedback from judges. It
also leads to valuable public and media exposure for the top business
plans and helps spur economic growth in Wisconsin.

The contest includes three written phases. Phase 1 entries, 250-word (or 1,400-character) idea abstracts, were due 5 p.m. Jan. 31, 2015. Contestants
that advance to Phase 2 will submit a 1,000-word (or 6,200 character)
executive summary. The field is then further narrowed down for Phase 3,
which requires a 15- to 20-page business plan. The “Diligent Dozen,” or
top 12 finalists, will square off in the final phase of the contest with
oral presentations during the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference on
June 2 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison.

To get started, contestants created a simple account at http://www.govsbizplancontest.com/. All
entries are submitted directly through the website. Contestants use the
account to gain access to mentors throughout the process, as well as
review the judges’ comments and feedback.

This statewide contest is an opportunity to compete for cash and
prizes, but it’s also a chance to get constructive feedback on your
business plan and to help move it from a virtual business to a reality.
In 2015, finalists will once again have the opportunity to share in
upwards of $100,000 in cash and services!